Cypfruvex Manager Addresses Controversy Over Bangladeshi Workers’ Living Conditions and Wages
Cemal Redif, manager of Cypfruvex, provided statements regarding the conditions faced by workers from Bangladesh and addressed allegations concerning their compensation. Redif confirmed some of the issues reported about the workers’ accommodations but claimed the situation has been exaggerated by the media.
“RESPONSIBILITY FOR ESCAPE TO THE SOUTH LIES WITH CYPFRUVEX IF PASSPORTS ARE RETURNED”
Redif expressed concerns that if the workers were given their passports, Cypfruvex would be blamed for any escapes to Southern Cyprus.
“DEPOSIT HELD TO MAINTAIN PUBLIC ORDER”
Redif stated, “Cypfruvex owes nothing to anyone. Workers were paid for three months of work starting in April, with only a 15-day deposit withheld. This money was kept to ensure control over workers from a third-world country and to maintain public peace.”
He acknowledged that July salaries were unpaid but noted that workers received weekly groceries on Saturdays.
“Out of 590 registered workers, only one has returned home,” Redif mentioned.
“MEDIA DRAMATIZATION”
Redif criticized media coverage, saying, “The situation was dramatized. Even if you live in a villa, the media can portray it as living in filth. We would have shown the documents if they had approached us.”
“LIVING CONDITIONS WERE THEIR CHOICE”
Regarding workers’ living conditions, Redif stated, “They chose where they stayed. This is their lifestyle; they cook communally and eat directly from the pot. Am I supposed to change their culture?”
“NO EXPLOITATION OCCURRED”
Redif argued against exploitation claims, stating, “We supported those with family health issues and provided hospital transport for sick workers. Those making these claims are further exploiting them.”
“WORKERS BROUGHT FOR HARVEST NEEDS”
Redif explained that workers were recruited from Bangladesh due to insufficient numbers from Türkiye, adding, “When Turkish workers returned, we employed these workers legally to ensure the citrus harvest.”